Why Are the Soviets against Missile Defense-Or Are They?

Authors

Anthony Carl Holm

Abstract

A survey and comparison of U.S. and U.S.S. R. ballistic missile defense (BMD) policy decisions reveal that both nations regard BMD as desirable. Further, the actions of the United States and U.S.S.R; support this argument even though both countries have publicly reproved BMD strategy at one time or another. So why are the Soviets bombarding the U.S. arms control negotiators with statements to the contrary? Why are the Soviets opposed to BMD in the 1980s? A survey of American and Soviet actions, national interests, and public statements-prior to the Antiballistic Missile Treaty, during the treaty negotiations, and after the treaty took effect-should demonstrate why.

Recommended Citation

Holm, Anthony Carl (1987) "Why Are the Soviets against Missile Defense-Or Are They?," Naval War College Review: Vol. 40: No. 3, Article 6.
Available at: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/nwc-review/vol40/iss3/6